Gallo Pinto
Costa Rica is a nation in Central America nestled between Nicaragua and Panama. The name Costa Rica means rich coast in Spanish and this nation is very rich indeed. It is rich in varied activities that will keep any visitor entertained for weeks. It is blessed with an astounding amount of natural beauty. The country is bordered by the Pacific Ocean of the west and the Caribbean Sea on the east.
The Pacific coast has unique white sand beaches, while the peaceful Caribbean Sea has some of the most stunning sceneries in Central America.
The country is a naturalist’s paradise. Over twenty five percent of its 19,500 square miles is unspoiled virgin forests and gardens. Costa Rica boasts several incredible national parks. Travel to Tortuguero National park, home to three unique species of turtles. Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is famous the world over. It has over 2,000 species of plants, 400 types and 100 different mammals. There are also big cats, tapir, four species of monkeys and a variety of reptiles. They include the fastest running lizard in the world, the spiny tailed iguana.
The mountains of Costa Rica are some of the tallest on the isthmus of Central America. The tallest, Cerro Chirripo, is 12,530 feet tall. It is the fifth tallest mountain in Central America. Tourists also flock to the volcanoes. Irazu Volcano rises over 11,260 feet into the Costa Rican sky. It is the tallest one in the nation.
Water sports are very popular here. Surfing, fishing and snorkeling are world class. Divers often swim near the island off the Costa Rican coast. There they can see over 35 species of coral, dolphins and whales. There are also a number of types of Angel fish including French, Isabella and Queen Angels. The best area for snorkeling is Manzanillo Beach.
At night, Costa Rica comes to life. Sounds of salsa, merengue, cumbia and Costa Rican swing fill the night. And the food is fantastic. Dishes like Gallo Pinto a combination of beans, fried rice and lizano sauce are very popular. You should also try the arroz con pollo (chicken and rice) along with ensalada rusa (beet root in mayonnaise) and follow it with a dessert of Tres Leches (cake bathed in evaporated, condensed and regular milk with whipped cream on top). The place to eat them is in the numerous Sodas around town. Sodas are small restaurant with excellent food at inexpensive prices.
Vacations here are a unique experience. Travel to Costa Rica the greenest place on earth.
